Muhammad bin Tughluq(1971)
Muhammad bin Tughluq is a 1971 Indian Tamil-language political satire film written and directed by Cho Ramaswamy in his directorial debut. The film stars Cho as the title character, with R. Neelakantan, S. Rajagopal, Veerasamy, Peeli Sivam, Manorama, Sukumari, and G. Sakunthala in supporting roles. The story follows the 14th-century sultan Muhammad bin Tughluq who wakes up in 1971 after being buried alive for centuries and rises through the ranks of Indian politics to become Prime Minister. The film is based on Cho's play of the same name, which was first staged in 1968. It became a trendsetter for socio-political satire films in Tamil cinema and achieved cult status despite facing controversy for targeting DMK founder M. Karunanidhi and Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The film was a commercial success and was remade in Telugu with the same title in 1972. It was released on 5 March 1971.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Sun NXT, Airtel Xstream Play
- Theatrical Release
- 31 December 1971
- Director
- Cho
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 30m
- Rating
- 7.8/10
Storyline
An explorer unearths a coffin in Daulatabad Fort containing two men alive from the 14th century. They claim to be Sultan Muhammad bin Tughluq and his companion Ibn Battuta. The sultan enters Indian politics, wins a by-election, and becomes Prime Minister. But his true identity hides a secret plan to expose the corruption in the system.
“A sultan from the past rules the present.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Muhammad bin Tughluq
Cast reunions in this film: M. S. Viswanathan & Manorama (63 films together), M. S. Viswanathan & Cho (15 films together), Manorama & Cho (7 films together), Sukumari & M. S. Viswanathan (5 films together), Sukumari & Manorama (5 films together), and M. S. Viswanathan & Usha Nandhini (3 films together).
Trivia
- The film's title and plot were inspired by a real 14th-century Delhi Sultan known for his controversial and eccentric decisions.
- Director Cho Ramaswamy was also a famous political satirist and editor, and the film is seen as a political allegory.
- The movie was shot in just 15 days, which was an unusually short schedule for a feature film at the time.
- It was one of the earliest Tamil films to use the concept of historical figures being revived in the modern day for satire.
- The film's release coincided with a period of political turmoil in Tamil Nadu, adding to its topical relevance.
- Actor Nagesh, known for his comic roles, played the key character of Ibn Batuta in the film.
- Despite its low budget, the film developed a cult following for its sharp dialogue and political commentary.